CFTC to Host Roundtable Discussions on Digital Assets Amid Regulatory Shifts

Acting CFTC Chair Caroline Pham recently announced that the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) will hold public roundtable discussions. These discussions will focus on market issues, especially those related to digital assets.

In a notice from January 27, the CFTC shared plans to schedule these roundtable events over the next few months. Topics will include conflicts of interest, prediction markets, and, of course, digital assets. Pham emphasized that these discussions will involve input from industry leaders and market participants.

“The CFTC will get back to basics by hosting staff roundtables that will develop a solid administrative record with studies, data, and public input,” Pham stated. She believes a comprehensive approach to changing market trends will help establish clear rules and safeguards. This, in turn, can promote U.S. economic growth and enhance American competitiveness.

This announcement came shortly after Pham was appointed as acting chair following President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Pham has been a commissioner at the CFTC since April 2022. At this time, it’s unclear who Trump will nominate for the permanent chair position.

Former CFTC Chair Rostin Behnam, who stepped down on January 20, will remain with the commission until February 7. In his final remarks, he urged policymakers to address regulatory gaps in the crypto space.

The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency could change if U.S. lawmakers move forward with legislation that clarifies the roles of the CFTC and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in regulating digital assets. One proposed bill, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act, passed the House of Representatives in May 2024 and is expected to go to the Senate for a vote.

Trump has nominated former SEC Commissioner Paul Atkins to replace Gary Gensler as chair of the SEC. At the moment, three out of five SEC members are in place. Until Atkins’ Senate nomination hearing and potential confirmation, SEC Commissioner Mark Uyeda is likely to serve as acting chair.